‘Arya Stark’ details journey from cleaning bathrooms to PFL San Diego

Ilara Joanne, the Brazilian fighter known as "Arya Stark," has traveled a long road to reach the Professional Fighters League. From rural Ceará in Brazil's interior, Joanne worked as a security guard, pizzeria employee, and bathroom cleaner while chasing her fighting dream, sometimes accepting free lodging just to continue training. Since her Bellator debut in 2019, she has competed across multiple promotions and even fought in Japan—experiences she once thought impossible.

At PFL San Diego on June 27, Joanne faces former Legacy Fighting Alliance champion Shannon Clark in a strawweight bout. Despite inconsistent results in both Bellator and the PFL, Joanne believes a refined approach and renewed focus on grappling will reverse her fortunes. She has been training with her home team, Pitbull Brothers in Brazil, working extensively on jiu-jitsu fundamentals under coach Valdines Silva while receiving input from head coaches Patricio and Patricky Freire.

Joanne respects Clark's championship pedigree and physical strength but sees technical advantages in her own experience and grappling prowess. She acknowledges that Clark is no underdog, particularly coming off a successful LFA title defense, yet believes the matchup will play to her strengths if she executes her game plan.

Reflecting on her journey, Joanne hopes to inspire others pursuing fighting careers. "The lesson for anyone getting started is this: you only lose if you give up," she said. She credits her team, managers, and the promotion for helping transform her sacrifices into opportunity, and she remains grateful for the chance to compete at the highest level.